Cleanings, Exams and X-rays for Kids - Oregon City, OR

Professional cleanings performed by a hygienist or dental assistant are important to your child's dental health, as are daily brushing and flossing. Using specialized tools and kid-friendly language, we will:

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Remove plaque build-up from the surfaces of teeth. Bacteria in the mouth form plaque, which collects on teeth and causes decay, gum disease and gingivitis

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Remove tartar from teeth surfaces. Tartar, or calculus, is plaque that has become so hardened on the teeth that its removal requires special procedures. Tartar below the gum line is also an indicator of gum disease, and generally appears on older children and adults

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Help with brushing and flossing techniques, and encouraging healthy eating habits at home to promote good oral development

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Remove surface stains from teeth through polishing

Examinations

Regular examinations help detect and prevent health issues before they become serious. Twice yearly dental check-ups help catch problems when they are small and easier to treat. Left unattended, small treatable problems become worse and may require more extensive, expensive procedures to repair. Dental examinations in our office generally include the following:

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Digital x-rays to assess proper tooth development and healthy eruption of primary and permanent teeth

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Thorough examination of the teeth, looking for areas of decay, teeth that will be exfoliating (coming out soon), future orthodontic needs, and any treatment diagnosis

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Head, neck, and mouth visual examination

X-rays (Radiographs)

Dental x-rays are a primary tool for early identification of dental problems. X-rays are primarily used to detect tooth decay between teeth, dental infections, cysts (fluid-filled sacks), tumors, impacted teeth, and teeth that not erupting properly. Your Portland / Oregon City pediatric dentist uses x-rays to detect these issues early, saving you money in the long run by preventing the need for more expensive procedures or surgeries.

Some people are concerned about radiation exposure, and we agree that we should always use the least amount of x-ray exposure possible. Luckily, most dental radiographs are a tiny fraction of the amount of medical radiographs and are more comparable to a few hours in the sunshine. The benefit we get from a radiograph x-ray that can prevent serious dental problems more than makes up for the risk from a tiny amount of x-ray exposure.

We invite you to call us at 971-470-0045 with any questions about your child's first visit!

Check Out Great Grins for KIDS!

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Specializing in dentistry for infants, children, adolescents and special needs patients